Celebrated on 09/29/2026
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) was founded in 1899 by veterans of the Spanish-American War, making it one of the oldest veterans' service organizations in the United States. National VFW Day, observed on September 29, commemorates the founding of this organization that has since provided billions of dollars in assistance to veterans and their families.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) traces its roots to 1899 when a group of Spanish-American War veterans formed the American Veterans of Foreign Service in Columbus, Ohio. In 1914, this group merged with another organization, the Army of the Philippines, to form the modern VFW. National VFW Day was established to honor the founding of this organization, which received its federal charter in 1936. The holiday serves as a reminder of the VFW's mission to advocate for veterans' rights, provide support services, and foster camaraderie among those who served overseas.
Since its founding, the VFW has grown from a small group to a nationwide network with over 1.4 million members. National VFW Day has evolved from local observances to a nationally recognized day marked by ceremonies, parades, and community service events. Today, VFW posts across the country host open houses, flag-raising ceremonies, and educational programs to highlight the organization's contributions. The day also serves as a fundraising opportunity for the VFW's charitable programs, including its National Home for children and the Military Assistance Program.
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